This Common Railroad Crossing Mistake Is Actually Illegal in Minnesota

Ever find yourself inching up behind a big bus or truck that seems to have randomly stopped in the middle of the road by railroad tracks? You check both ways, no train in sight. You’re tempted to swing around and breeze past, but... maybe think twice.

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Breaking Minnesota's Often Overlooked Railroad Crossing Law Could Cost You

Sgt. Troy Christianson of the Minnesota State Patrol reminds us in his most recent "Ask a Tropper" series that certain vehicles like passenger vans, school buses, and large trucks are actually required by law to make a full stop at railroad crossings, even if no trains are visibly coming.

The question: Can you legally pass vehicles stopped at railroad crossings in Minnesota?

The answer: Nope, it’s illegal.

Sgt. Christianson explains that passing any vehicle within 100 feet of a railroad crossing is against the law. So yes, waiting behind them can be a bit of a patience test, but it's far better than risking a ticket and a hefty fine.

More Minnesota Railroad Crossing Laws and Why They Matter

We don’t always think of railroad crossings as high-risk zones, but they are, and this is why Minnesota’s laws take them so seriously. For instance, it’s also illegal to drive around a lowered gate at a crossing. Trains can appear with little to no warning, and their size and speed make them hard to predict and impossible to stop quickly.

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Obeying railroad safety laws is as much about precaution as it is about avoiding a ticket. From yielding to trains at crossings to staying within marked pedestrian areas when walking across tracks, these small habits can prevent deadly incidents.

A Few More Tips for Staying Safe at Railroad Crossings

Here are a few extra reminders from our friends at the Minnesota State Patrol:

• Never race a train. Even if it feels like you’ll “make it” if you hurry, don’t do it. A near tie will always be a loss.
• Look out for a second train. Sometimes one train will pass, and another is right behind it. Make sure the coast is completely clear before moving on.
• If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, get out immediately. Distance yourself from the tracks and call 911 as soon as you’re safe.